Local News

Battle Over World Trade Center Cross Goes to Court

An atheist group is suing to prevent the World Trade Center Cross from being put on display at the National September 11 Memorial & Museum.

The 17 foot steel crossbeam was found in the wreckage at Ground Zero in the days after the September 11 attacks. For many, the cross was a symbol of hope during a time of tragedy.

Now it's part of the plans for the museum at the site, but the group American Atheists says that would be a violation of the First Amendment. It argues the cross would represent the promotion of a specific religion on government land.

But others say the cross is part of history and should be included in the museum.

Today, the Second Court of Appeals will hear arguments over the lawsuit.